Puck — November 12, 1879 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes what appears to be a power struggle involving Republican political figures of the 1879 era. The caption reads "And He Marked Him for His Own," attributed to figures named Hayes, Sherman, Conkling, and Kelly. The central caricatured figure with a prominent nose appears to be the target of manipulation by surrounding politicians. The "Governor's House" sign and "A.B. Cornell" reference suggest this involves New York state politics and possibly Cornell's governorship. The satire depicts backroom political maneuvering—one figure is literally "marked" or claimed by more powerful politicians through corrupt dealing. The goblin-like creatures and theatrical poses emphasize the underhanded nature of the political patronage system being ridiculed.